Monday 21 December. Your festive South Island escape begins in Blenheim, the heart of the Marlborough wine region, where we arrive at the beautiful Marlborough Estate for a leisurely seasonal lunch. Nestled among vines, gardens and rolling countryside, this stunning property is home to both Harvest Restaurant and the boutique TK Wines label, showcasing the very best of Marlborough hospitality. Enjoy a guided wander through the estate and kitchen gardens, discovering the philosophy behind Harvest’s produce-driven dining experience before settling in for a long lunch featuring locally inspired cuisine and beautifully matched wines.

Later, we check into our accommodation. This evening, relax over dinner and soak up the excitement and festive spirit of the wonderful journey ahead.

Lunch, Dinner.

Tuesday 22 December. With our bags packed, we begin the day exploring two exceptional Marlborough gardens. Hortensia House enchants with its Monet-inspired colour palette and relaxed country charm, where vibrant blooms spill beside a sparkling creek. At historic Welton House, a Garden of National Significance, sculpted topiary reflects the surrounding Richmond Ranges, while rustic wooden steps and elegant pergolas blend seamlessly into the landscape. Here, Wendy warmly welcomes us for a delightful garden lunch filled with festive cheer before we continue our journey south.

In Blenheim, we board the spectacular Coastal Pacific Rail journey. Hugging the shoreline with the Pacific Ocean almost brushing the tracks, and the towering Kaikōura Ranges rising dramatically beyond, this is one of the world’s truly great scenic rail experiences.

Arriving in Kaikōura, we settle into ocean-view rooms at the beautifully positioned Sudima Hotel, perfectly located on the waterfront and just a gentle stroll from the township and beach.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Wednesday 23 December. This morning, it’s “ships ahoy” as we embrace the remarkable marine wildlife that makes Kaikōura famous around the world. Boarding a private charter, we cruise out onto the sparkling Pacific in search of playful dusky dolphins before venturing further offshore to encounter the magnificent albatross, gliding effortlessly above the ocean with their extraordinary wingspans. With dramatic mountains rising behind the coastline, this is a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.

This afternoon brings yet another extraordinary perspective as we meet the Wings Over Whales team at the local aerodrome. Travelling in smaller groups, we take to the skies, aboard scenic aircraft to witness the sheer scale and grace of the giant sperm whales that inhabit these waters year-round. From above, the contrast of deep ocean trenches, rugged coastline and these enormous marine mammals creates a breathtaking spectacle — and undoubtedly one of the highlights of the tour.

Tonight, we gather for dinner at the iconic Pier Hotel, a much-loved Kaikōura institution perched beside the water’s edge. With fresh local seafood on the menu and perhaps even crayfish for dinner, it’s the perfect way to end a magical day on the coast.

Breakfast, Dinner.

Thursday 24 December. Today we farewell the coast and journey inland to the alpine village of Hanmer Springs. Upon arrival, we are warmly welcomed with a beautifully prepared Christmas Eve high tea lunch — a wonderfully indulgent way to celebrate the festive season. Savour delicate sweet treats, savouries and seasonal delights in charming surroundings before stepping out for some fresh alpine air.

This afternoon, we stretch our legs with a leisurely wander through the enchanting Hanmer Springs Forest Sculpture Walk, where creative artworks are thoughtfully nestled among towering pines and woodland pathways. Later, we settle into our accommodation for a relaxing two-night stay.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps soak in the famous thermal pools at the fabulous Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve, or take a gentle stroll through the historic Queen Mary Hospital grounds and gardens, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Thursday 25 December. 

Wake to Christmas morning in our alpine retreat,

Where festive good cheer and warm friendships meet.

Over breakfast together, with laughter and delight,

We celebrate the magic of this wonderful day bright.

Then up through the high country, winding we go,

Beyond the great gateways of Molesworth and Rainbow.

Past mountains and valleys in landscapes so grand,

Through some of New Zealand’s most significant land.

With Christmas cake waiting and picnic delights,

We gather for lunch in these breathtaking sights.

There’ll be presents and laughter, good company too,

And perhaps even Santa may come into view!

As the evening draws gently to a close once again,

We return through the hills and the wide-open plain.

Then dine in festive style with good friends old and new —

What a magical Christmas this promises to be!

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Saturday 26 December. With bags packed, we farewell the magic of Christmas and begin our journey towards Christchurch, stopping once more along the spectacular Kaikōura Coast for a very special rural experience at Tawanui Farm. Nestled beside the beautiful Conway River and surrounded by dramatic hill country, this remarkable working farm offers an authentic glimpse into coastal life on the South Island.

Here, we meet the farming family and learn about the history, landscape and daily workings of this stunning property before climbing aboard for an exhilarating jet boat ride up the Conway River. As we speed through crystal-clear waters beneath towering cliffs and rugged farmland, we discover the unique stories and natural beauty of this extraordinary region.

After our adventure, we settle in for a classic Kiwi barbecue lunch, generously prepared by the farmers themselves — a relaxed and memorable experience filled with hearty food, warm hospitality and plenty of country charm.

Later this afternoon, we continue south to Christchurch for our final overnight stay together.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Sunday 27 December. This morning, we enjoy a relaxed start in Christchurch before visiting the delightful Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, a peaceful sanctuary showcasing some of New Zealand’s most treasured wildlife. Wander beautifully landscaped grounds as we encounter kiwi, tuatara, playful kea, colourful bird life and other native species, alongside charming farm animals and gentle woodland pathways. With tranquil ponds, rustic bridges and hidden corners to explore, Willowbank provides a wonderfully fitting and uniquely Kiwi finale to our festive South Island escape.

Later, our Christmas journey together comes to an end as we arrive at Christchurch Airport. Here, we farewell our wonderful travelling companions and local driver, taking home treasured memories of festive celebrations, spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters and the warm companionship shared along the way.

Breakfast.